The Amarillo Pioneer

Amarillo's only free online newspaper. Established in 2016, we work to bring you local news that is unbiased and honest.

Feb 27 Seliger Holds "Governor" Dinner

State Senator Kel Seliger was in Amarillo, on Friday night, holding a dinner during his "Governor for a Day" festivities.

Seliger, who was chosen as the President Pro-Tempore of the Texas Senate, presided as Governor on Friday, as Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick were out of the state. Instead of holding an event in Austin, Seliger held a series of events throughout the 31st district, cumulating in a dinner at the downtown favorite Youngblood's Cafe.

The dinner was packed all night, with constituents from around the area mingling and eating at the event. Multiple Amarillo-area officials were present including Mayor Paul Harpole, AC Regent Jay Barrett, and State Representative John Smithee. Several candidates for local office were also in attendance at the meal.

The dinner was the final stop on Seliger's "Governor for a Day" tour. The Senator also stopped in Midland, Odessa, and Big Spring during the day. Throughout the tour, Seliger and his wife, Nancy, posted on the senator's Facebook page to update residents about the festivities of the tour.

"When the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Texas are both out of the state at the same time, the president pro-tem of the Texas Senate is the acting governor." Seliger said in a video at the beginning of the tour, "And today that's me."

According to Seliger's spokesperson, Senator Seliger broke tradition with the majority of the those who have held the role of president pro-tempore. Most senators who have held the capacity typically celebrate in Austin.